The Johnson-Rose Cancer Foundation (JRCF) is making an incredible impact on the lives of many cancer patients, working to provide vital cancer care to uninsured patients who are often left without hope. By funding treatments, transportation, and support services, JRCF helps patients navigate the challenges of their illness.
Cape Town, South Africa (13 December 2024) – The festive season is an opportunity for families to bond, unwind, and celebrate joyful moments after a challenging year. Unfortunately, for thousands of South Africans diagnosed with cancer, the long waiting lists for treatment turn this time into one of uncertainty and anxiety.
With 85% of South Africans reliant on the overstretched public health system, those diagnosed with certain cancers face years of waiting for treatment.
The Johnson-Rose Cancer Foundation (JRCF) is South Africa’s first and only registered non-profit organisation dedicated to funding cancer care for uninsured cancer patients referred from state hospitals. The foundation depends on donations to put vital cancer treatment, transport and ancillary support services in place for these patients.
Lilian, a domestic worker and mother of three diagnosed with breast cancer, is just one example of the many lives JRCF has touched. She faced serious financial barriers to treatment when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“Thanks to a private sector radiation therapy service provider that the foundation engaged, Lilian was able to access the treatment she required.
“The foundation further stepped in to support Lilian as she was unable to afford the daily costs of travelling on public transport to access treatment. With door-to-door transport provided by the foundation, Lilian completed her radiation therapy,” recounts JRCF Founder and Specialist Radiation Oncologist Dr Sudeshen Naidoo.
Nothing could serve as a greater gift this festive season than your support.
A donation of just R100 a month will enable JRCF to extend vital cancer care services to more patients throughout 2025.
“No matter how modest, these recurring gifts create a sustainable foundation that allows us to provide life-changing support ranging from treatment to transport assistance for beneficiaries. R100 a month can help save a life,” shares Dr Naidoo.
The foundation’s support includes funding chemotherapy, radiation, transport, accommodation, counselling, and palliative care referrals to those in need.
“We understand that cancer affects not just the patient, but the entire family. Our goal is to provide a network of support that addresses the financial, emotional, and logistical challenges that come with most cancer diagnoses.”
With only 15% of oncologists working in the public sector, the JRCF also funds bursaries to urgently expand the oncology workforce.
A cause close to Dr Naidoo’s heart
Dr Naidoo shares that he started the foundation as an individual directly touched by cancer.
“I named it in memory of my late father, Johnson, and my aunt, Rose – both of whom passed from cancer. With treatment out of reach for so much of the South African population, I sought a way to bring hope to families who had seen no reason to hope before.
“For everyone who has supported us or supports us now to further this goal, you have my heartfelt thanks.”
If you would like to become one of the JRCF 100 new donors, please visit the website here.
Sources: Johnson-Rose Cancer Foundation
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